Quick Ways To Boost Your Writing Confidence
One of the most significant problems that many writers face is their inner critic. It is so easy to let that pesky voice inside tell you-you're not good enough and that you should give up. Listening to it or not being able to quieten it can have a massive effect on your writing confidence and could ultimately stop you writing altogether.
There is nothing wrong with having confidence in your writing, for feeling positive and excited about it rather than shy, stuttery and hopeless. So next time you think your confidence could do with a boost why not try the following to see if you can get back on track in no time at all?
Write regularly
The more you practice your writing, and the further you progress, the more you will feel confident that you know what you are doing and that you can get to where you want to be. This is by far the best way to quickly gain confidence, so even when you don’t feel like it, it’s important to keep writing.
Get feedback
While it can be scary to get feedback, often you’ll find that people are encouraging and helpful rather than destructive and cruel. Joining a writing group or online community where you can share your work are great places where you can expect honest, constructive feedback that tends to stay positive as it’s coming from your fellow writers who know just how tough the writing game is!
Read positive stories
So many writers suffer from lack of confidence and setbacks, and many of those writers are now celebrated and mega-famous authors! It’s so important to remember that you could well be your own worst critic and while you feel that your writing might be awful, you’d be surprised at the reactions of others. Even if you do get rejected, remember that is just part of being a writer, and you should keep trying because you never know when you might get your big break.
Stick up inspirational quotes
Sometimes just reading something uplifting and aspirational can help change our mindset. Why not stick up some of your favourite quotes around your workspace which will help to remind you to stay focused on your dream even through the toughest of times?
Write down your goals
Be clear about what you want to achieve and write this down. Seeing your goals in print in front of you will remind you of what you want, and will help give you the confidence to go out and get it.
Start small, dream big
You can build up to that six-figure publishing deal, but while you are trying to boost your confidence why not start with local competitions, small publications and even just posting your work online to get feedback? Starting small can help you slowly build up a belief in yourself and your writing. If you aim too high too soon, you might feel disheartened when you need to work your way up to get there slowly.
Learn about writing
There are so many different things you can learn about writing, so always make sure you are learning as much as you can. Read lots and widely for inspiration too. The more you learn and the more you read, the more inspired and confident you’ll feel.
Submit your work
Getting to the point where you feel ready to submit your work is a massive achievement in itself. Who cares if you get rejected? It just means that you're a real writer now!
By doing the above, you will always feel like you are moving forward with your writing, getting closer to reaching your goals and achieving your dreams. So next time you are feeling doubtful about your writing abilities or whether you can do it, try working on the above tips to help you stay focused and feeling confident throughout the writing process.
Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'
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